FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – The Indiana Department of Transporation, Indiana State Police, and Indiana Criminal Justice Institute are urging drivers to watch our for children while they trick-or-treat on Indiana streets this Halloween. Drivers should be prepared for abnormal traffic patterns as drivers turn to visit friends and family or stop to allow pedestrians to cross.

INDOT, ISP and ICJI are offering parents the following tips to protect the safety of Indiana’s smallest pedestrians:

Watch for children darting into the streets. Kids can cross the street anywhere, and most young pedestrian deaths happen in spots other than intersections.

Yield to young pedestrians. Children might stop, either because they don’t see your vehicle approaching or they may not know how to safely cross the street.

Communicate with other drivers. Always use your turn signals, and if you pull off of pick up your kids, turn on hazard lights.

Costume Tips

Keep costumes short to prevent trips and falls.

Try face paint instead of a mask. Masks often obstruct a child’s vision, which makes tasks like crossing the street and going up and down stairs dangerous.

Make sure children wear light colors or put reflective tape on their costumes.

Costume props, such as swords, knives, etc. should be short, soft and flexible.

Trick or Treating

Make sure older children trick-or-treat with friends. Together, map out a safe route so parents know where they will be.

Instruct children to stop only at familiar homes where the outside lights are on.

Encourage children to trick-or-treat while it’s still light out. If children are out after dark, make sure they have flashlights and travel on well-lighted streets.

Remind children not to enter the homes or cars of strangers.

Remember to walk and not run, use sidewalks and cross as crosswalks when possible.

Follow your community’s trick-or-treating hours.

Treats

Remind children not to eat any of their treats until they get home.

Check out all treats at home in a well-lighted place.

Only eat opened candies and other treats that are in original wrappers. Remember to inspect fruits for anything suspicious.

According to a press release from Indiana State Police Headquarters, homeowners should keep walkways clear of obstacles and well lit. Keep lit candles and other luminaries away from areas where children will be.